Giants Pass on Potential Franchise QB in Latest NFL Mock Draft
In his latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft, analyst Lance Zierlein predicts a surprising move for the New York Giants, who have a glaring need at quarterback. Despite this, Zierlein has the Giants passing on drafting their quarterback of the future and instead selecting a different playmaker.
In Zierlein’s mock, Penn State’s Abdul Carter and Miami’s Cam Ward are selected with the first two picks. However, at No. 3, instead of taking Colorado quarterback Cam Ward, the Giants opt for Ward’s teammate, Travis Hunter.
Hunter is a versatile playmaker who excels as both a cornerback and a receiver, filling two potential needs for the Giants. With wide receiver Darius Slayton likely departing in free agency, the Giants could look to add another weapon alongside Malik Nabers, Wan’Dale Robinson, and Jalin Hyatt, who combined for 210 receptions, 1,965 yards, and 10 touchdowns last season. Nabers led with 109 receptions, 1,204 yards, and seven touchdowns. Hunter, who ranked among the top 5 in the FBS for receptions, yards, and touchdowns, could be a valuable addition to the offense.
Defensively, Hunter’s skills can also boost a secondary that struggled last season with only five interceptions, allowing 3,869 yards and 23 touchdowns. With Hunter joining players like Deonte Banks and Dru Phillips, the Giants could form a strong, young defensive backfield.
Hunter’s exceptional 2024 season saw him excel with 25 tackles, four interceptions, and 11 pass deflections, earning PFF grades of 89.3 for defense and 90.7 for coverage. His talent as a lockdown corner could translate well to the NFL. Last season, he played a significant portion of snaps, contributing both on offense and defense, totaling 1,460 snaps, which accounted for 84.6% of his team’s total.
The Giants are reportedly leaning toward Hunter as a cornerback, with some experts, including Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, suggesting his potential is higher as a defensive back.
While the Giants are expected to pursue a quarterback in free agency, they might also add one in the draft depending on how things unfold. If they acquire a veteran like Matthew Stafford or Russell Wilson, they could be more inclined to draft Hunter and later use a Day 2 pick on a quarterback to develop.
Leave a Reply